Chicago, IL – Hazy skies will continue to affect the Chicago area this week as wildfire smoke from the west lingers through Thursday. Warm and dry conditions are expected to persist, increasing the risk of fire spread across the region. The National Weather Service reports a slight chance of rain heading into the weekend, primarily for areas south of I-80.
According to the NWS, the smoke may create visibility issues and impact air quality, especially during the afternoon. Residents with respiratory issues or other health concerns are advised to limit outdoor activities while the haze remains.
Starting Friday evening, scattered showers are expected to move into southern parts of the area, bringing some relief to drought-stricken regions south of I-80. However, rain totals will likely remain low, so any relief from dry conditions will be short-lived.
Residents should stay updated on weather and air quality changes through local forecasts. The combination of haze and low humidity may pose additional risks, so exercise caution when engaging in outdoor activities.